Africa is in Style... didn't you know?

It is not unusual to see the colors and hear the rhythms of Africa at runway shows in Paris, New York, or Milan. But despite its influence on Western designers, African fashion is still struggling to make itself known. With the ambitious pursuit of reinventing urban fashion, many young African designers are breaking away from the expectations imposed on them to infuse ethnic and folkoric themes into their work, without ignoring rich textiles and fashion heritage.

When I ask people to describe 'African' fashion some actually respond with statements like, "animal print explosion" or "tribal and uncivilized". Little do they know that a number of items hanging in their closets from H&M, Forever 21, or other retail giants have been inspired or designed by an African designer. 

Not all African influences have to be about tiger and zebra print. I have seen beautiful showcases with amazing African designers that are absolutely mind boggling! Especially in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area. 

This piece is my favorite and if you know me then you know why... its Pink! 

This garment was featured in 2010 African Fashion Week designed by Laquan Smith and Bunmi Koko.

More of their gorgeous work:

Their designs have been worn by celebrities like  Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Amerie, Aubrey O'day, Electric Red, and amber rose . 

Be sure to keep your eyes open and support the young designers! VTU will be showcasing talents from the DMV area, you won't want to miss it!!!

2010 Jewelry Trends Near and Far

Make BOLD Statements!

Big, bold statement jewelry – whether it’s a chunky cuff, an oversized opulent cocktail ring, or a giant laced bib necklace – this is the season for size and bigger is better.

The more unique and different, the better the look.

On the campus of the University of Jordan where over 38,000 students attend I've noticed quite a few young women making quite the BOLD statement in their own way. Here modernity meets tradition in a BIG BOLD way.

My story...

I was born on an isthmus that links the Americas where my mother too was born. Bordered by Costa Rica and Columbia, the Republic of Panama is my birthplace and my home. There are several theories about the origin of the name "Panama". Some believe that the country was named after a commonly found species of trees. Others believe that the first settlers arrived in Panama in August, when butterflies abound, and that the name means "many butterflies" in an indigenous language.

The best known version is that a fishing village and its nearby beach bore the name "Panamá", which meant "an abundance of fish". Blending all of the above together, Panamanians believe in general that the word Panama means "abundance of fish, trees and butterflies". 

Our culture is vibrant and endearing. Our motto is "Pro Mundi Beneficio" - "For the Benefit of the World" It is rare to cross paths with a Panamanian who is not smiling. My home is wonderful in every way from its spicy array of comida (food) to its lively music and dance. 

My father hails from Trinidad, Land of the Hummingbirds. It too is my home.

Trini people command attention and are known to be very charismatic and uplifting. There is never a dull moment when Trini's are around. 

I love where I come from and I acknowledge it everyday, it seeps through all that I do. My story is unique with new chapters being written everyday.

What's your story?

Looks like the Middle East is catching up in the Fashion world

I'm trying to find one of these to bring back! =)

After the trend of harem pants all over the world now the next style is, of course,  a burqa. 

Yes, Middle- Eastern fashion is catching up with the western diva’s at an alarming rate. Maybe it's because of the flashy statement it gives or because it is absolutely so feminine and gorgeous. 

The designer brand Givenchy is in particular promoting it to a very great extent. During a fashion week, Givenchy had its models wearing burqa’s, gold veils, heavy- metal gold ornaments and harem pants with sharp- shouldered blazers on the ramp. Well, I would say that looking at all the jewelry middle-eastern people wear here in Jordan, any woman would love to dress up in their fashion (I WOULD!).

Everything at the Givenchy show was so rich and royal that it had the caliber of making a woman feel like a princess. 

So, if you are tired of being elegant and smart, give yourself a different look with some heavy dresses and jewelry straight from the Middle East countries.

You can read more from Givenchy's show at Style Guru ! =)

I am currently on the lookout for thick jewelry and airy harem pants!!! Wish me luck.